environmental hygiene
environmental hygiene
By Michael Parker, CMIP, T-CSCT, T-CHEST, T-CNACC
The Crucial Connection: Infection Prevention and Environmental Services in Healthcare
In today’ s complex healthcare landscape, the partnership between infection prevention and control( IPC) and environmental services( EVS) is more than operational— it’ s strategic. These two disciplines form a vital alliance, working in unison to protect patients, staff, and visitors from healthcare-associated infections( HAIs). Their collaboration goes beyond routine coordination; it’ s a dynamic, innovative-driven relationship that directly influences patient outcomes and the overall safety culture of healthcare institutions.
As healthcare systems face evolving threats— from emerging pathogens to staffing challenges, the need for synchronized action between infection prevention and EVS has never been more urgent. This article explores how their joint efforts, shared learning, and co-leadership are not only essential for infection control but also foundational to building resilient, adaptive, and safe care environments.
The Role of Infection Prevention
Infection prevention is a cornerstone of healthcare, dedicated to halting the spread of infections within clinical settings. This discipline involves implementing the latest evidence-based practices, providing continuous education for healthcare workers, and closely monitoring infection rates. The aim is to shield patients, staff, and visitors from healthcare-associated infections( HAIs), which can lead to longer hospital stays, increased costs, and, in severe cases, fatality.
Environmental Services: Partners in Progress EVS is a pivotal partner in protecting patient safety, working side by side with IP to maintain clean, pathogen-free environments. Their responsibilities span cleaning and disinfecting patient and operating rooms, managing waste, and ensuring all surfaces are safe. As co-innovators with IP, EVS staff are at the forefront of finding and applying new methods and technologies that prevent the spread of infection, making them indispensable in the joint fight against HAIs.
Lockstep Collaboration: A Unified Front Against Infection
True infection control is not achieved in silos; it demands seamless coordination between infection prevention and environmental services. When these teams operate in lockstep, they move beyond task alignment into strategic partnership. Together, they synchronize protocols, share insights, and co-develop solutions that respond to evolving threats with agility and precision.
This collaboration is especially critical in managing high-touch surfaces, outbreak response, and adapting to emerging pathogens. It’ s not just about doing the job; it’ s about doing it smarter together. By jointly piloting new disinfection techniques, evaluating technologies, and refining workflows, IPC and EVS create a feedback loop of continuous improvement that directly enhances patient safety.
Their unity transforms infection control from a reactive process into a proactive, innovation-driven mission— one that sets the tone for excellence across the entire healthcare organization.
Joint Training and Continuous Improvement suggest Building Capability Together: IP and EVS in Training
A truly integrated IP-EVS approach emphasizes ongoing joint training and education. Infection preventionists collaborate closely with EVS staff, engaging in shared workshops and simulations, and exploring creative uses of technology and protocols. This collective pursuit of knowledge ensures both groups are empowered with the latest insights and best practices, fostering a culture of mutual growth and readiness.
Communication and Shared Discovery suggest Listening, Learning, Leading— Together
Open, frequent communication is the bedrock of their partnership. Through regular joint meetings, collaborative rounds, and transparent sharing of data and observations, IP and EVS co-discover emerging risks and opportunities. Together, they set and refine benchmarks for excellence, always seeking out fresh perspectives and approaches for a safer environment.
Impact on Patient Safety
When IPC and EVS move as one with a shared, innovative spirit, the impact on patient safety is profound. Research shows that hospitals where these teams collaborate closely and creatively see significant reductions in HAIs, improved patient outcomes, and higher satisfaction levels. Their unified, forward-thinking approach creates a hospital culture where safety is not just a protocol, but a continuous, evolving mission.
Meeting Challenges Through Unity and Innovation Despite obstacles such as staffing shortages or turnover, the answer lies in their shared commitment to innovation and mutual support. By investing in both professional development and cutting-edge technologies, and by championing new ideas together, IP and EVS can overcome challenges and set new standards in patient care.
The Future: Co-Innovators for Safety
Looking ahead, the expectation for IP and EVS is clear: to remain steadfast partners, always in lockstep, and to continually seek innovative ways to protect patients. As healthcare evolves and new threats emerge, their united front and shared quest for advancement will be crucial in ensuring patient safety remains a central and unyielding priority.
Conclusion: Co-Leaders in the Culture of Safety Infection prevention and environmental services are not just operational partners— they are co-leaders in shaping the future of healthcare safety. Their collaboration is a strategic force, driving innovation, resilience, and excellence in patient care. When IPC and EVS operate in true alignment, they create environments where safety is not a checklist, but a shared mindset.
As healthcare continues to evolve, so must this partnership. By investing in joint training, embracing emerging technologies, and fostering open communication, healthcare institutions can empower IP and EVS to lead the charge in preventing infections and elevating care standards.
Now more than ever, leadership must recognize and support this alliance, not only to reduce HAIs, but to build a culture where every patient, provider, and staff member feels protected, respected, and valued.
Michael Parker, CMIP, T-CHEST, T-CNACC, T-CSCT, is chief operating officer of P & P Consulting.
24 • www. healthcarehygienemagazine. com • sept-oct 2025